In recent years, Ford has made a strong commitment to embracing autonomous driving technology with their hands-free driving system called BlueCruise. BlueCruise aims to set a new standard in the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) arena by using a combination of sensors and cameras to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, maintain its position in the lane, and make automatic lane changes and speed adjustments.
BlueCruise utilizes a variety of sensors and cameras including a radar sensor to detect vehicles and objects in the road, a lidar sensor to create a 3D map of the road, a front-facing camera to monitor the driver’s eyes and head position, and four cameras mounted on the vehicle’s corners to provide a 360-degree view of the surroundings. This comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings allows BlueCruise to make informed decisions and avoid hazards.
To activate the BlueCruise system, users need to register their vehicle using the FordPass app and enable the Connect Modem. Once activated, the system can be accessed through the settings menu and adaptive cruise control section. BlueCruise is currently available on select Ford models including the Expedition, F-150, F-150 Lightning, and Mustang Mach-E SUV.
Consumer Reports’ testing of the BlueCruise system has affirmed its commendable performance and effectiveness in maintaining driver engagement. The system has been continuously refined and upgraded through over-the-air updates to enhance its features and address any shortcomings.
When comparing BlueCruise to Tesla’s Autopilot, it’s important to note that Tesla’s Autopilot is integrated into their entire fleet without additional charges, while BlueCruise requires a fee for access. Both systems have their strengths and weaknesses, with Autopilot excelling in lane centering and responsiveness, and BlueCruise standing out in adaptability and quick response to changing road conditions. Notably, BlueCruise prioritizes safety with its Direct Driver Monitoring System that requires continuous driver engagement.
Hands-free driving systems like BlueCruise have faced scrutiny from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) due to safety concerns. However, these systems are continuously evolving, with lessons learned from real-world experiences leading to improvements in road safety and driving convenience.
Overall, Ford’s BlueCruise system represents a significant advancement in autonomous driving technology, with a focus on safety and innovative features. The debate between BlueCruise and Tesla’s Autopilot highlights the nuances in the ADAS landscape, with cost, accessibility, and safety being important factors. As the industry continues to evolve, hands-free driving technology like BlueCruise will play a key role in creating safer and more convenient driving experiences.